The Little Princess
The Little Princess

The Little Princess

1939Movie93 minEnglish

A little girl goes in search of her father who is reported missing by the military during the Second Boer War.

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IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Google Users93%
Director: Walter LangGenres: Family, Drama, Musical

Plot Summary

A kindhearted young girl, Sara Crewe, is sent from India to a New York City boarding school for girls run by the strict Miss Minchin. Despite her privileged upbringing, Sara’s father is presumed lost in the Boer War, leaving her penniless and forced into servitude. Through her imagination and inner strength, Sara maintains her dignity and inspires those around her, ultimately leading to a hopeful reunion.

Critical Reception

The Little Princess was a critical and commercial success, particularly lauded for Shirley Temple's star-making performance and the film's lavish production values. It was celebrated for its emotional resonance and uplifting message, becoming one of Temple's most beloved films and a classic of its era.

What Reviewers Say

  • Shirley Temple delivers a captivating and resilient performance that anchors the film.
  • The film is a visually rich and emotionally satisfying adaptation of the classic novel.
  • Praised for its heartwarming story and its ability to blend sentimentality with moments of genuine hardship.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight Shirley Temple's undeniable charm and the film's enduring, inspirational story. Many appreciate its classic family-friendly entertainment value and its touching portrayal of overcoming adversity.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Original Score and Best Sound, Recording. It was also honored with a Photoplay Magazine Gold Medal Award.

Fun Fact

The elaborate attic set where Sara lives after her father's presumed death was so detailed and convincing that Shirley Temple reportedly told her mother she didn't want to go back to her dressing room, preferring to stay in the attic.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Young "Sara" (Shirley Temple) is the apple of her military father's eye. When he (Ian Hunter) is sent abroad to fight in the Boer war, she is left at a posh boarding school run by the pernickety "Miss Minchin" (Mary Nash). Initially, this a...